Ericsson, Nokia and Psion have conditionally agreed to form a new joint venture called Symbian. This agreement is further strengthened by the support of Motorola who have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to join Symbian.

The creation of Symbian represents a significant step forward for consumer and corporate users of mobile technology. Symbian aims to take a leadership role in the rapidly expanding Wireless Information Device market. Symbian will enable its owners and licensees to create user friendly Wireless Information Devices, such as smartphones and communicators - two new classes of affordable digital devices which will dramatically increase the user benefits of mobile computing and communications. Symbian will seek to drive the convergence of mobile computing and wireless technology, enabling Internet access, messaging, information access, all within a device which fits in a shirt pocket.

Initially Psion will own 40% of Symbian with Ericsson and Nokia each owning 30%. Symbian's new investors will provide additional resources and expertise. Symbian intends to license its EPOC operating system to other smartphone and communicator manufacturers. EPOC is a non-proprietary scalable operating system for mobile Wireless Information Devices that provides commercial and technological advantages for licensees, including customisable user interfaces, color support, advanced Internet connectivity, and officially accredited and award-winning PC connectivity software.

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http://www.symbian.com/